What child hasn't been delighted to see his first bird up close?
Maybe it was a humble sparrow or a squawking seagull - whatever
they are, birds are a natural delight to watch and can be seen
anywhere in the world.
If you are looking for an activity that you can enjoy with your
children, whether they're five or 15, you might want to consider
the popular hobby of bird watching. It is one of the fastest
growing outdoor activities in America - and a great way for
families to enjoy time together.
What IS Bird Watching?
Bird watching is more than just observing birds. It is an
interest in the actual birds - their names, markings, activities,
songs and habitats. Not only does it encourage a child (or an
adult) to learn about birds, but gets them outside and builds an
appreciation of local wildlife and nature.
Bird watching doesn't require a strong knowledge of birds; you
can learn with your children as you begin to locate and identify
local wild birds. You can keep a list of the birds you've spotted
and help one another identify what you've seen by making notes of
the color, size and markings on the bird. You may even start to
learn their calls and can challenge yourself to identify the
birds by their songs.
Where Can We Go to Bird Watch?
Bird watching can be as simple an activity as setting up a bird
feeder in your backyard and watching the local wild birds that
come to you. However, your children will no doubt appreciate time
spent outdoors, properly geared up for an outing of bird watching
with you.
You will soon learn about the specific habitats that birds live
in around your home. As you become familiar with local birds you
may even want to take trips to areas that will feature different
species than you have locally. Watch as your children eagerly try
to identify these new birds before you do!
What Do We Need?
Bird watching is a very inexpensive hobby. If you are going to be
outside you will want everyone to have proper attire - including
an extra pair of socks and a hat.
Other than that you will need at least one pair of binoculars,
although it is more fun if everyone has their own pair so nobody
misses out on a sighting. A bird book (called a field guide) will
help you to identify the birds you see. You should find one that
features birds in your area since it will also give you
suggestions about where to find them.
If your children are older, or you catch the bird watching bug,
you should also take a notepad and camera.
(see this article about teaching photography to children) Take notes on birds you can't identify and look them up at home with your children to
determine what you saw. You might also develop a list of local
birds and check them off as you see them. This is great for kids
who thrive on challenge!
Bird watching is a fantastic hobby that the whole family can
enjoy. Try it one afternoon and see for yourself how your family
bonds while enjoying the fresh air and local scenery!
